Teams will play different variations of the basic rules but the only real rule is simple - NO RUNNING!

That makes for a slower version of the games you love – which is becoming increasingly popular across Scotland and beyond.

They are designed to help people get fit or maintain an active lifestyle no matter what their age and fitness, as well as support people getting back into sport if they have given it up due to age or injury. 

The sports, including walking football, walking netball or walking basketball, bring a range of physical health gains as well as mental health and social benefits. Making new friends and having a chat over a cup of tea after the game is all part of the experience.

Paths for All and walking football

In 2015, we took the lead in the development of walking football in Scotland, in partnership with Age Scotland, SAMH, SFA and the SPFL Trust. We funded a Walking Football Development Officer who was tasked with increasing the number of sessions and players taking part in walking football each week. There are teams playing across most of Scotland now – from Kirkwall in the north to Gretna in the south.

Our work led to the establishment of Walking Football Scotland - a new charity dedicated to continuing the growth of the game in Scotland.

Walking Football Scotland’s vision is to improve, maintain and promote the physical, mental and social wellbeing of older adults through Walking Football. They aim to work with groups/clubs, partners, participants, local authorities, health services and any other organisations interested in the development of walking football.

Getting involved

You can find contact details for walking football sessions across the country on the Walking Football Scotland website. They also offer resources and advice on setting up a walking football group and information on joining their network.